Never Alone Foundation

Blue Bombers Alumnus and former CFL Executive Lyle Bauer conceived Never Alone Foundation after being diagnosed with throat cancer in 2004. “When I was first diagnosed with cancer, I can tell you that in spite of family and friends, I had never felt so alone and unsure of what the future would bring,” recalled Bauer, who has since successfully fought the disease.

His experience with the disease and the support he received from friends, family, and cancer service providers inspire him to help other cancer patients to let them know that they are Never Alone.

From revitalizing the rooms of a palliative care unit and a blood and marrow unit to providing funds to stage a puppet program to explain the effects of cancer to children, the Never Alone Foundation continues to make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families. Never Alone Foundation also provides gift baskets, food and gas gift certificates, books, advice on who to contact for other services and more importantly to simply lend an ear and the opportunity to talk with someone who has gone through this same journey.

Never Alone Foundation Mission

Never Alone Foundation is a national registered charity committed to improving the lives of people affected by cancer.

Never Alone Foundation Vision

A world where no one enters the fight against cancer feeling alone.

The Never Alone Foundation – Your Teammate For Life

By Tony Playter
November 25th, 2016

In 2004, Blue Bombers alumnus and former CFL Executive Lyle Bauer was diagnosed with throat cancer. While he faced many tough challenges and won many on-field battles, Bauer knew he was in a fight for his life.

“When I was first diagnosed with cancer, I can tell you that in spite of having family and friends by my side, I had never felt so alone and unsure of what the future would bring,” said Bauer.

Bauer, who is now cancer free, found inspiration in successfully defeating the life threatening disease. His treatment experience and the overwhelming support he received from family, friends and cancer service providers motivated him to help other cancer patients.

Thus Bauer created The Never Alone Foundation which is committed to improving the lives of people affected by cancer.

“Our vision is a world where no one enters the fight against cancer feeling alone,” said Bauer. “We assist former CFL players through our support of the CFLAA dire needs program in addition to supporting past players from all teams and their families who are fighting cancer.”

According to Bauer, the Never Alone Foundation is funded through the generosity of donors as well as the proceeds from many great fundraising events.

“Donations can be made through our website as well as registering to be a volunteer,” said Bauer. “Our foundation requires both to make a difference in the lives of others and all contributions are greatly appreciated.”

In addition to providing gift baskets, food and gas gift certificates, The Never Alone Foundation also provides direction and information on other medical services.

“More importantly, our Never Alone Foundation team members simply lend an ear and the opportunity to talk with someone who has gone through this same emotional journey,” said Bauer.

Bauer notes that cancer makes the choice of who the Foundation helps.

“I am proud to say that our great staff and volunteers always find a way to make a difference and assist all who are fighting the disease,” said Bauer. “Obviously resources can be limited however we always do our best to provide compassionate support to those who fight.”

During his playing career Lyle Bauer was known for his leadership and taking care of his teammates. Today, he and the Never Alone Foundation continue to share that caring philosophy as they make a difference in the lives of cancer patients and their families.